The historic ramparts of Jaigarh Fort came alive once again as the second edition of the Vedanta presents Jaigarh Heritage Festival drew to a triumphant close on Sunday, December 7, 2025. Following two immersive days on December 6 and 7, the festival successfully wove together the rich tapestry of Rajasthan's royal past with dynamic contemporary expressions, attracting a diverse crowd of heritage enthusiasts, scholars, artists, and visitors from across the nation.
A Royal Inauguration and Vision for the Future
The festival commenced on a soulful note with a morning performance by Hullas Purohit, supported by the Dagar Archives Museum, its melodies echoing across the ancient fort. The inaugural ceremony set the stage for the event's ambitious vision. Key figures including HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh, Ritu Jhingon (President, Anil Agarwal Foundation), and Sanjoy K. Roy (Managing Director, Teamwork Arts) addressed the gathering.
Emphasizing the living nature of heritage, Sawai Padmanabh Singh remarked that Jaigarh is not a frozen monument but a space where memory and creativity continuously evolve. The festival's core mission was outlined as reviving Rajasthan's legacy through artistic innovation, community engagement, and intergenerational storytelling.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd., highlighted the festival's role in honouring the artisans, musicians, and entrepreneurs who are the true custodians of culture. She expressed pride in supporting a platform that spotlights tradition while presenting it through contemporary, immersive experiences.
Two Days of Artistic Brilliance and Scholarly Discourse
The festival's programming offered a rich blend of performance, dialogue, and hands-on engagement. Day one featured a powerful musical act by Papon and an innovative, gamified experience titled 'Kaun Banega Metal-Head?', designed by Vedanta to educate visitors about metals and resources driving India's growth.
Day two opened with a contemplative morning performance by Pandit Mohan Shyam Sharma. Intellectual sessions delved deep into Rajasthan's history and art. Scholars like Dr. Giles Tillotson and Dr. Mrinalini Venkateswaran discussed visual documentation of the Jaipur court, while a panel featuring Dr. Rima Hooja explored Rajasthan's political history and the art of war.
Audiences participated in a rhythmic Khartal workshop by Chugge Khan and enjoyed soulful folk performances by Shahzad and Sakil Khan. The stage also witnessed contemporary fusion acts like 'Divyam x Khwaab' and Soumik Datta's 'One Size Fits All'. An intriguing conversation on the spectral and formless between Sanjoy K. Roy and Arundhati Nath added a unique dimension.
A Grand Finale and Lasting Impact
The festival culminated in a spectacular grand finale that left audiences spellbound. It featured the critically acclaimed 'Manganiyar Seduction' by Roysten Abel, the thunderous Nagadas by Nathoo Lal Solanki, and the sonic fusion of the Princely States Dub Orchestra featuring Rajasthan Josh.
Reflecting on the event's success, Sanjoy K. Roy stated that the overwhelming response reinforces that preserving culture is both a collective responsibility and a celebration. Beyond the stage, the Crafts Bazaar at Laxmi Vilas and the curated Food Gully offered sensory delights, while expert-led Heritage Walks uncovered the architectural splendour of Jaigarh Fort.
The 2025 Jaigarh Heritage Festival stands as a powerful testament to Rajasthan's living legacy. By seamlessly bridging the past and present through art, scholarship, and community participation, it strengthens Jaipur's position as a vibrant epicentre for cultural heritage and experiential tourism.
